A city centre newsagents is facing opposition over its bid to sell alcohol.

Best One, on Grainger Street in Newcastle, is trying to get a licence to sell booze between the hours of 9am and 11pm.

Conditions on the application include the operation of a Challenge 25 scheme for anyone trying to buy alcohol, as well as the installation of a CCTV system to cover all public areas.

But the plans are being challenged by a nearby vicar, who fears the move would cause an increase in anti-social behaviour.

Rev Nicholas Buxton, of St John the Baptist Parish Church, also on Grainger Street, has written to licencing chiefs calling on them to reject the move.

Rev Dr Nicholas Buxton of St Johns Church in Newcastle

He said: “I am only too well aware of the problems caused by excessive drinking in the city centre, a fair amount of which takes place in the churchyard of St John’s.

“In addition to alcohol abuse, we have to contend with a wide range of anti-social behaviour, including but not limited to, urination, defecation, drug litter, takeaway litter, broken glass, aggressive begging, vandalism, verbal abuse, acts of indecency and intimidating behaviour.

“We have worked very hard over the last few years to tackle the anti-social behaviour that is a blight on our city, and I believe the granting of this licence will be detrimental to all four licencing objectives as stated in the city council licencing policy.”

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Objections are based around the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance and protection of children from harm.

Rev Buxton added: “The churchyard at St John’s should be a pleasant mini-park in the city centre, which can be enjoyed by all.

A glass and bottle of cider (Image: PA)

“Unfortunately it is compromised by the anti-social behaviour of a small number of individuals who drink there and spoil it for others, using it as a toilet and behaving abusively towards other members of the public.

“All of this is the direct result of the consumption of alcohol purchased from off-licences in the local area.”

As well as Rev Buxton, a local shopkeeper is also against Best One being given the green light to sell booze.